Publication Details
Abstract
Complex oral cavity defects that involve simultaneous bone and soft tissue loss represent one of the greatest challenges in maxillofacial regenerative surgery. Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) has been widely used to reconstruct alveolar bone structures, but it lacks intrinsic biological stimulation for soft tissue healing and angiogenesis. Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF), an autologous platelet concentrate rich in growth factors, offers a biologically active scaffold that enhances both hard and soft tissue regeneration. This prospective clinical study involved 40 patients with critical-sized alveolar defects, divided into two groups: one treated with GBR alone, and the other with GBR plus PRF membranes. Clinical healing, radiographic bone volume and density (via CBCT), and histological regeneration were evaluated over a 6-month period. The results showed that the GBR + PRF group achieved significantly greater bone gain (3.8 mm vs 3.1 mm), higher bone density, faster mucosal healing, and more new bone formation compared to the GBR-only group. These findings support the integration of PRF into GBR protocols as a cost-effective, biologically intelligent approach, especially in settings with limited access to synthetic biomaterials. The study highlights PRF's clinical potential in enhancing regenerative outcomes and promoting reliable implant site development.